Andi Unda (Kerala Special Cashew & Rice Balls)
Delightfully Nutritious & Sweet, a Kerala Specialty
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 2
Cuisine: Kerala
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Red Matta Rice | 1/2 cup |
| Unsalted Cashew Nuts | 1 cup |
| Jaggery (Powdered) or Brown Sugar | 1 cup |
| Dry Coconut (Kopra) | 1 cup |
Instructions:
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Roast the Red Matta Rice: Begin by roasting the red matta rice in a wide, dry pan over medium heat. Stir continuously as the rice begins to crisp and crackle. Once you hear a crackling sound, remove it from the stove and allow it to cool on a flat surface.
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Roast the Cashew Nuts: In the same pan, add the unsalted cashew nuts and dry roast them until they turn a light brown color. Be cautious not to over-roast them, as they may burn. Once done, transfer them to a flat plate to cool.
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Grind the Rice: Once the roasted rice and cashew nuts are cool, begin by grinding the rice into a fine powder using a mixer grinder.
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Grind the Cashews: Next, grind the roasted cashew nuts. Use the pulse function of the grinder to avoid turning the nuts into a paste. Pulse 4-5 times until you have a fine powder.
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Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the powdered rice, powdered cashews, powdered jaggery (or brown sugar), and dry coconut (kopra). Use your hands or a spoon to mix these ingredients thoroughly.
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Pulse the Mixture: Transfer the mixture back into the mixer grinder and pulse it 4-5 times. This helps ensure all the ingredients are well combined and will bind together easily when shaping the balls.
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Shape the Balls: Take a fistful of the mixture and press it tightly between your palms to form small, round balls (similar to laddus). Repeat the process until all the mixture has been shaped into balls. Place them on a clean, flat plate to set.
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Serve and Store: Andi Unda is best enjoyed fresh within 2-3 days. For longer storage, place the balls in an airtight container and refrigerate. However, it’s recommended to consume them within 7-10 days for the best taste.
These cashew and rice balls are a delightful snack, perfect for those hunger pangs or as a wholesome addition to your children’s lunch boxes, offering a sweet treat that’s rich in nutrients.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
(Approximate values)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 28g
